OPOD - Bondi Beach Surf Bow

Last updated on September 16, 2023

OPOD - Bondi Beach Surf Bow: Exploring the Spectacle

The Bondi Beach Surf Bow is a remarkable atmospheric phenomenon that captivates both locals and visitors alike. This awe-inspiring momentary bow, formed by the spray flung from crashing waves, appears to dwarf the surfers further along the wave, creating a striking visual contrast. Located near Sydney, Australia, Bondi Beach is renowned for its surf culture and picturesque beauty, making it the perfect backdrop for this natural spectacle.

The colors of the surf bow at Bondi Beach are more widely separated than those of a typical rainbow. This phenomenon occurs because the droplets of spray in the air are smaller than raindrops. Smaller droplets create wider and more pastel-colored bows. In fact, when mist droplets are present, the surf bow can even transform into a fogbow, where the colors become even more diffuse and ethereal.

It is worth noting that there is another factor at play that cannot be observed in the Bondi Beach bow – the effect of seawater. Seawater contains dissolved salts that increase its refractive index. As a result, the bows formed by seawater are smaller in size compared to those produced by rain. This distinction adds an intriguing element to the study of atmospheric optics and highlights the diverse ways in which nature manifests itself.

A rare photograph taken aboard a tanker by J Dijkema offers a unique glimpse into the relative sizes of rainbows and seabows. In this captivating image, the upper bow is produced by rain, while the smaller lower bow, with a radius approximately 0.8° smaller, originates from Pacific Ocean spray. This visual comparison serves as a powerful reminder of the sheer beauty and diversity of atmospheric phenomena.

As we delve deeper into the intricacies of atmospheric optics, it is important to acknowledge that this article has been automatically converted from the old site and may not appear as originally intended. However, the essence of the information remains intact, allowing us to explore and appreciate the wonders of the Bondi Beach Surf Bow.

In conclusion, the Bondi Beach Surf Bow is a breathtaking display of nature's artistry. Its vibrant colors and colossal presence provide a captivating experience for all who witness it. The unique characteristics of the spray droplets and the influence of seawater on the size of the bow add depth to our understanding of atmospheric optics. Whether it is the wider, pastel-colored bows or the smaller bows produced by seawater, each manifestation of this phenomenon is a testament to the beauty and complexity of our natural world. So, the next time you find yourself at Bondi Beach, keep an eye out for this enchanting spectacle and let yourself be immersed in its mesmerizing allure.

Bondi Beach Surf Bow ~ A momentary bow formed by wave flung spray appears to dwarf the two surfers further along the wave. Bondi Beach, famous for its surf, is near Sydney, Australia. Image taken by Geoff Clayton. ©Geoff Clayton, shown with permission

The bow's colours are more widely separated than usual because the spray droplets are smaller than raindrops. Smaller droplets give progressively wider and more pastel coloured bows. In the limit of mist droplets we have a fogbow.

Another effect that cannot be seen in the Bondi Beach bow is the effect of seawater. The dissolved salts increase the refractive index of seawater and its bows are therefore smaller than those produced by rain.

The relative size of rainbows and seabows is well shown in the very rare photograph at right taken aboard a tanker by J Dijkema. The upper bow was produced by rain and the smaller lower bow (by ~0.8° radius) is from Pacific Ocean spray.

Note: this article has been automatically converted from the old site and may not appear as intended. You can find the original article here.

Reference Atmospheric Optics

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